Labuan Museum

Objective

• To preserve the historical and cultural heritage of the Federal Territory of Labuan through the acquisition of collections, research, documentation and static exhibitions.
• To relay an effective picture of the historical development, and the harmony and richness of the culture of the Federal Territory of Labuan in particular and Malaysia in general to both domestic and foreign visitors.
• To foster realization and awareness among the people on the importance of preserving the historical heritage as well the culture of the various races in the effort to create a harmonious society.
• To increase the number of tourism products in the Federal Territory of Labuan.

Galleries

The Labuan Museum consists of two galleries and specialized in the historical and cultural theme of Labuan. The ground floor gallery is dedicated to the chronological history of the Federal Territory of Labuan, which consists of the eight segments transition period beginning from introduction, pre historic era, the rule of Brunei Sultanate, the administration of the British Government, the Second World War, post-war era, the independence and administration of the state of Sabah, the remarkable personalities of Labuan and the development of Labuan as a Federal Territory. The upper floor exhibits the socio-cultural and socio-economic aspects of the local community in the Federal Territory of Labuan through six sections each representing the Brunei Malays, Kedayan, Chinese, Kadazandusun, Indians and Sikhs live a harmony in multi-racial society.  

The main attraction is the replica of a Kedayan house which offers visitors an authentic impression of a traditional wooden house. Also motif of brassware in the life of the Labuan community. 

Collections

The Labuan Museum displays of 707 collections, mostly comprised of historical and ethnological artefacts. Amongst the most valuable artefacts are stone quern from the Neolithic period, which was found in Burong Island. A collection of wartime weaponry such as submarine weapon known as depth charge and anti-submarine projectile (ASP). Both are used by Allied Forces to destroy Japanese navy during World War Two. Also the original pen, chair and table used by the Prime Minister of Malaysia and Sabah’s Chief Minister during the declaration of Labuan as a Federal Territory in 1984. A collection of currency and stamps of Labuan used during the colonial era, mostly aged more than hundred years. 

Ethnological collections display socio-economic items, music instruments, weapon and hunting tools, costume and ritual was used by multi-racial community in Labuan. Visitors are allowed to feel part of this collection as an attraction. Also displays a custom and culture in wedding ceremony; varieties collections of brassware for daily use and traditional functions in Labuan society especially Brunei Malays community such as vases, vessel, bowl, tray, small cannon; and an award as personal collection among the community leaders.